U.S. patent number 11,079,835 [Application Number 16/570,617] was granted by the patent office on 2021-08-03 for display device and method for controlling same.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Casio Computer Co., Ltd.. The grantee listed for this patent is Casio Computer Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Kimiyasu Mizuno.
United States Patent |
11,079,835 |
Mizuno |
August 3, 2021 |
Display device and method for controlling same
Abstract
A device includes a first display, a second display, a battery,
a control processor, and a second processor. The second display
consumes less power than the first display. The control processor
changes a display mode of the device between a first display mode
and a second display mode. In the first display mode the first
display displays information, and in the second display mode the
second display displays information. The control processor switches
from the first display mode to the second display mode to give the
battery a longer life. The control processor is operated by an
"Operating System" (OS), and the second processor is operated by a
"Basic Input Output System" (BIOS).
Inventors: |
Mizuno; Kimiyasu (Akishima,
JP) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Casio Computer Co., Ltd. |
Tokyo |
N/A |
JP |
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Assignee: |
Casio Computer Co., Ltd.
(Tokyo, JP)
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Family
ID: |
59061205 |
Appl.
No.: |
16/570,617 |
Filed: |
September 13, 2019 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20200004319 A1 |
Jan 2, 2020 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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16065129 |
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PCT/JP2016/077608 |
Sep 13, 2016 |
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Foreign Application Priority Data
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Dec 22, 2015 [JP] |
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2015-249286 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F
3/1446 (20130101); G09G 3/34 (20130101); G06F
1/3234 (20130101); G06F 1/3296 (20130101); G09G
3/3406 (20130101); G06F 3/14 (20130101); G06F
1/32 (20130101); G09G 3/36 (20130101); G06F
1/3293 (20130101); G06F 1/3265 (20130101); G09G
5/00 (20130101); G09G 3/20 (20130101); G09G
2330/022 (20130101); G06F 1/324 (20130101); G09G
2340/0435 (20130101); G09G 2330/021 (20130101); G09G
2330/023 (20130101); G09G 2300/023 (20130101); H04N
5/66 (20130101); G09G 2330/027 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
G06F
1/3296 (20190101); G06F 1/32 (20190101); G06F
1/3234 (20190101); G06F 1/3293 (20190101); G06F
1/3203 (20190101); G09G 3/34 (20060101); G06F
3/14 (20060101); G09G 3/20 (20060101); G09G
3/36 (20060101); G06F 1/3218 (20190101); H04N
5/66 (20060101); G06F 1/3212 (20190101); G06F
1/3206 (20190101); G06F 1/324 (20190101); G06F
1/3228 (20190101); G09G 5/00 (20060101) |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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2003-099153 |
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Apr 2003 |
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JP |
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2006-139145 |
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Jun 2006 |
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JP |
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2006-208536 |
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Aug 2006 |
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JP |
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2006-243329 |
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Sep 2006 |
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JP |
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2007-121368 |
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May 2007 |
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JP |
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2007-127724 |
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May 2007 |
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JP |
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2009-053586 |
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Mar 2009 |
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JP |
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2010-164781 |
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Jul 2010 |
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JP |
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2013-015779 |
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Jan 2013 |
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JP |
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2013-114277 |
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Jun 2013 |
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JP |
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2010/137670 |
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Dec 2010 |
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WO |
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Other References
Extended European Search Report, dated Jun. 8, 2020, for European
Application No. 16878071.6--1210, 7 pages. cited by applicant .
Extended European Search Report (EESR) dated May 17, 2019 issued in
European Application No. 16878071.6. cited by applicant .
International Search Report (ISR) dated Dec. 20, 2016 issued in
International Application No. PCT/JP2016/077608. cited by applicant
.
Japanese Office Action (and English language translation thereof)
dated May 15, 2018 issued in counterpart Japanese Application No.
2017-098597. cited by applicant .
Written Opinion dated Dec. 20, 2016, issued in international
Application No. PCT/JP2016/077608. cited by applicant.
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Primary Examiner: Watko; Julie Anne
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Seed IP Law Group LLP
Claims
The invention claimed is:
1. A device, comprising: a first display; a second display which,
in operation, consumes less power than the first display; a
battery; a control processor which, in operation, changes a display
mode of the device between a first display mode and a second
display mode, wherein in the first display mode the first display
displays information, and in the second display mode the second
display displays information; and a second processor; wherein the
control processor switches from the first display mode to the
second display mode to give the battery a longer life, and wherein
the control processor is operated by an "Operating System" (OS),
and the second processor is operated by a "Basic Input Output
System" (BIOS).
2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second processor,
in operation, consumes less power than the control processor.
3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the control processor
sends data for changing the information displayed on the first
display, wherein the second processor sends data for changing the
information displayed on the second display.
4. The device according to claim 2, wherein the first display is
controlled by the control processor and the second display is
controlled by the second processor.
5. The device according to claim 2, wherein the control processor
is in a non-active state in the second display mode.
6. The device according to claim 2, wherein the second display is
located on an upper side of the first display closer to a viewer
than the first display.
7. The device according to claim 2, wherein the second display has
a lower resolution than a resolution of the first display.
8. The according to claim 1, wherein the first display and the
second display are laid over each other in a direction
perpendicular to planes of the first display and the second
display.
9. The device according to claim 8, wherein the second display is
located on an upper side of the first display closer to a viewer
than the first display.
10. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second display has
a lower resolution than a resolution of the first display.
11. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control processor
consumes less power in the second display mode than in the first
display mode.
12. A device, comprising: a first display; a second display that
has a lower resolution than a resolution of the first display; a
first processor; a second processor that has lower performance than
a performance of the first processor, wherein the first processor
is operated by an "Operating System" (OS), and the second processor
is operated by a "Basic Input Output System" (BIOS), wherein the
first processor or the second processor controls a light-emitting
status of a light source at least in a state in which a first image
is being displayed on the first display, wherein the second
processor controls the light-emitting status of the light source in
a state in which a second image is being displayed only on the
second display, wherein the second display is located on an upper
side of the first display closer to a viewer than the first
display, wherein the first processor sends data for changing
information displayed on the first display, and wherein the second
processor sends data for changing information displayed on the
second display.
13. The device according to claim 12, wherein the second display
consumes less power than the first display.
14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the first processor
controls display mode of the device between a first display mode,
in which the first display displays information, and a second
display mode, in which the second display displays information.
15. The device according to claim 14, wherein the first processor
is in a non-active state in the second display mode.
16. The device according to claim 14, further comprising: a
battery, wherein the first processor switches from the first
display mode to the second display mode to give the battery a
longer life.
17. The device according to claim 12, wherein the second processor
consumes less power than the first processor.
18. The device according to claim 17, wherein the first processor
controls display mode of the device between a first display mode,
in which the first display displays information, and a second
display mode, in which the second display displays information.
19. The device according to claim 18, wherein the first processor
is in a non-active state in the second display mode.
20. The device according to claim 18, further comprising: a
battery, wherein the first processor switches from the first
display mode to the second display mode to give the battery a
longer life.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a technology for display devices
that are applied in electronic apparatuses having a function for
displaying various types of information.
BACKGROUND ART
In recent years, portable information communication apparatuses
which are worn on human bodies and collect various data at the time
of exercise or in daily life, such as so-called smart devices,
smartphones (high-functionality cellular phones), and tablet
terminals, are significantly prevalent. In various widely
distributed electronic apparatuses including these apparatuses,
display devices for providing various information to users are
mounted.
Here, in order to improve viewability for the users or to meet
demands for advanced display, high-definition, fast (smooth), and
color display has been required for the display information of the
display devices. However, in general, color display requires
increased power consumption, by which the driving time of a
wearable or portable electronic apparatus such as those described
above may be shorten and, in the case of a stationary electronic
apparatus, its power-saving performance may be degraded. Also, in
the case of an electronic apparatus capable of such color display,
its power consumption may be relatively increased even when simple
information whose information amount is relatively small and which
is used for clock display, incoming call display, and the like is
displayed by monochrome display or mono-color display.
Therefore, various methods have been conceived which can actualize
various types of display functions for high-definition, fast, and
color display and easy information display while reducing power
consumption. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a structure
of an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral,
in which an operation panel section is equipped with a small-sized
first display panel with low power consumption and a large-sized
second display panel with high power consumption. In this
structure, in a normal operation mode, the second display is off
and only the first panel is on for display. In a detailed display
mode thereof, the first panel is off and only the second display is
on for detailed confirmation of setting contents or change
operations therefor. As a result, power-saving is achieved without
deterioration in the information display function of the operation
panel section and the operability.
Also, Patent Document 2 describes a structure of a liquid crystal
display device, in which a transmissive display area and a
reflective display area are disposed with each of the pixels
arranged in matrix form and individual sub-pixels are provided to
each display area. In this structure, display modes are switched
based on the status of external light. In the transmissive mode
thereof, transmissive display is performed by sub-pixels in the
transmissive display area of each pixel, whereby vivid color
display is achieved. In the reflective mode, reflective display is
performed by a sub-pixel in the reflective display area of each
pixel, whereby bright monochrome display or mono-color display are
performed and power consumption is reduced.
PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS
Patent Documents
Patent Document 1: JP 2010-164781
Patent Document 2: JP 2007-121368
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Problem to be Solved by the Invention
However, in the configuration described in Patent Document 1, a
single CPU is required to constantly monitor the display mode of
the operation panel section and judge the switching thereof.
Accordingly, there is a problem in that the processing load on the
CPU is increased, whereby its power consumption cannot be
sufficiently reduced.
Also, in the configuration described in Patent Document 2, the
sub-pixel for transmissive display and the sub-pixels for
reflective display are formed in each pixel, and are required to be
controlled individually in accordance with the display mode.
Therefore, there is a problem in that display control is
complicated and whereby the processing load on the CPU is
increased.
The present invention has been conceived in light of the
above-described problems. An object of the present invention is to
provide a display device and a control method capable of reducing
the power consumption of an electronic apparatus while providing
the user with various types of information in various display
formats.
Means for Solving the Problem
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention related to
the first embodiment, there is provided a display device having a
second display panel and a first display panel laminated thereon
from a visual field side, and comprising a control section and a
light source section, characterized in that the control section
controls switching of
a first operation mode where first image data is displayed on the
first display panel, the light source section is turned on, and the
second display panel enters a transmissive state so that the first
image data is visually recognized,
a second operation mode where second image data is displayed on the
second display panel, and the first display panel and the light
source section enter a halt state so that the second image data is
visually recognized in a reflective manner,
a third operation mode where the second image data is displayed on
the second display panel, the light source section is turned on,
and the first display panel enters the halt state so that the
second image data is visually recognized, and
a fourth operation mode where third image data acquired by the
first image data and the second image data being combined is
displayed on the first display panel, the light source section is
turned on, and the second display panel enters the transmissive
state so that the third image data is visually recognized, and
characterized in that the control section does not perform
simultaneous display of the first display panel and the second
display panel.
Effect of the Invention
According to the present invention, power consumption of an
electronic apparatus can be suppressed while supplying a user with
various types of information in various display formats.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing a first embodiment of a
display device according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method for
the display device according to the first embodiment;
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing display modes of the display device
according to the first embodiment;
FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram showing a comparative example
for describing an operation effect of the first embodiment;
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing examples of the screen display of the
comparative example;
FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram showing a second embodiment of
the display device according to the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method for
the display device according to the second embodiment;
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing (first) display modes of the display
device according to the second embodiment;
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing (second) display modes of the display
device according to the second embodiment; and
FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram showing modification examples
of the first and second embodiments.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Hereafter, embodiments of a display device, a method for
controlling same, and a control program according to the present
invention will be described in detail.
First Embodiment
(Display Device)
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing a first embodiment of a
display device according to the present invention. In this diagram,
a structural example of the display device according to the present
invention when it is applied in a wearable or portable electronic
apparatus is shown. This display device according to the present
invention can be applied in various electronic apparatuses having
display panels, such as a wristwatch or wristband type smartwatch,
a smartphone, a mobile phone, a portable apparatus for outdoor use
(for example, a GPS logger), and an in-vehicle apparatus (for
example, a navigation system). Specifically, the display device 10
according to the present embodiment mainly includes, for example, a
first display block BL1 and a second display block BL2, as shown in
FIG. 1. The first display block BL1 includes a processor (a first
processor) 100, a light source section 300, and a display section
400, and the second display block BL2 includes a processor (a
second processor) 200, and a display section 500. The processor 100
of the first display block BL1 is connected with at least an input
operation section 120 and a memory section 140, and the processor
200 of the second display block BL2 is connected with at least a
sensor section 210, an input operation section 220, an output
section 230, and a memory section 240.
The processor 100, which is an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU
(Central Processing Unit) or a MPU (Microprocessor), executes a
predetermined control program and a predetermined algorithm program
under the control of an OS (Operating System), and thereby controls
a processing operation in accordance with an input operation by the
input operation section 120, the display states of various
information in the display section 400 described later, and the
like.
As the OS, for example, "ANDROID" (registered trademark) of Google
Inc. in the U.S. can be adopted. The processor 100 is connected to
the display section 400 via an interface circuit 412 complying with
a standard for an interface (referred to as "I/F (A)" in the
drawing) where a data transfer rate is relatively high, such as
serial interfaces I ncluding MIPI (Mobile Industry Processor
Interface) and various types of parallel interfaces. By a
predetermined signal including image data (first image data)
generated by the processor 100 being transmitted to the display
section 400, a predetermined image is displayed on the display
section 400. Also, the processor 100 includes a collaborative
communication section 150. By transmitting or receiving a
predetermined collaborative signal to or from the processor 200
described later, the processor 100 collaborates and synchronizes
with the processor 200 so as to control at least the display states
of the display sections 400 and 500. The collaborative
communication section 150 includes a shared memory, and has a
connection port complying with a serial communication standard,
such as a UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter) or an
I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit). By being connected to a
collaborative communication section 250 provided in the processor
200, the collaborative communication section 150 transmits or
receives at least a predetermined collaborative signal or an
interrupt signal for controlling the display states of the display
sections 400 and 500.
Here, as the processor 100 for the present embodiment, an
arithmetic circuit whose processing power is relatively high to
control at least high-performance display for the display section
400 is adopted. The high-performance display herein is, for
example, the display of high definition color images, color
graphics, smooth moving images, and animation, or the display of
images having a large data volume which are highly expressive by,
for example, a visual effect such as a transition effect, and
images that are frequently updated or varied (by movements therein)
in screen display (highly functional images; first images). In
general, an arithmetic circuit to be adopted as this type of
processor 100 consumes a large amount of power by executing various
processing operations at a high operation frequency (first
operation frequency). In other words, an arithmetic circuit whose
processing power is relatively high (high performance) and which
consumes a large amount of power (high power) is required to be
adopted as the processor 100. In the present embodiment, an
arithmetic circuit that operates at a relatively high operation
frequency of about several hundreds of MHz to 1 GHz is adopted so
as to draw images on the later-described display panel 430 of the
display section 400 at a relatively high frame rate of, for
example, 30 fps or 60 fps. Here, the control program and the
algorithm program to be executed by the processor 100 may be stored
in the memory section 140 or may be embedded in the processor 100
in advance.
The input operation section 120 is input means such as a touch
panel arranged on the visual field side of the display panel 530
provided in the display section 500 described later. This input
operation section 120 outputs various operation signals based on
the user's input operations to the processor 100, whereby items and
information to be displayed on the display panel 430 are selected
and set in the processor 100. Note that, although details will be
described later, the display panel 530 of the display section 500
has a transmissive panel structure and is arranged such that it
overlaps with the visual field side of the display panel 430 of the
display section 400 in a planar view.
The memory section 140 stores data that is used when the
predetermined control program or the predetermined algorithm
program is executed by the processor 100, data generated thereby,
data to be displayed on the display section 400, and the like. Note
that a configuration may be adopted in which the predetermined
control program and the predetermined algorithm program to be
executed by the processor 100 are stored in the memory section 140.
Also, the memory section 140 may be partially or entirely in a form
of a removable storage medium such as a memory card, and may be
structured to be removable from the display device 10.
The processor 200 is an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU and a MPU,
as in the case of the processor 100. By executing a predetermined
control program and a predetermined algorithm program, the
processor 200 controls sensing operations by the sensor section
210, processing operations in response to input operations by the
input operation section 220, the provision of various types of
information by the output section 230, the display states of
various types of information on the display section 500 described
later, and the like. Unlike the processor 100, the processor 200 is
operated not by an OS such as ANDROID (registered trademark) but by
a small program (a program which is simple and does not impose a
large burden) such as BIOS (Basic Input Output System). In this
specification, this program is exemplarily referred to as BIOS.
Also, the processor 200 is connected to the display section 500 via
an interface circuit 512 complying with a standard for an interface
(referred to as "IF (B)" in the drawing) where a data transfer rate
is relatively low, such as SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface). By a
predetermined signal including image data (second image data)
generated by the processor 200 being transmitted to the display
section 500, a predetermined image is displayed on the display
section 500. Moreover, the processor 200 includes a collaborative
communication section 250 having a configuration equivalent to that
of the collaborative communication section 150 provided in the
processor 100. By transmitting or receiving a predetermined
collaborative signal to or from the processor 100 described above,
the processor 200 collaborates and synchronizes with the processor
100 so as to control at least the display states of the display
sections 400 and 500.
Here, as the processor 200 for the present embodiment, an
arithmetic circuit is adopted whose processing power is relatively
low but enough to display a simple image on the display section
500. In the present embodiment, this simple image (second image)
is, for example, an image having a small data volume which is not
expressive or an image whose update area for screen display is
limited, such as a mono-color or monochrome image or a segment
image representing the time, an icon, or the like. In general, an
arithmetic circuit to be adopted as this type of processor 200
executes processing operations at a low operation frequency (second
operation frequency). Therefore, its power consumption can be
suppressed to be low. In other words, as the processor 200, an
arithmetic circuit can be adopted whose processing power is
relatively low (low performance) and which consumes only a small
amount of power (low power). In the present embodiment, an
arithmetic circuit that operates at a relatively low operation
frequency of about several MHz to several tens of MHz is adopted
for a favorable sensing operation by the sensor section 210. Here,
the control program and the algorithm program to be executed by the
processor 200 may be stored in the memory section 240 or may be
embedded in the processor 200 in advance. Also, a configuration may
be adopted in which the same device is used for the processor 100
and the processor 200 and is operated at a low frequency when it
functions as the processor 200. In addition, a configuration may be
adopted in which both of them are operated by an OS.
The sensor section 210 is sensing means such as such as an
acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetism sensor, an
atmospheric pressure sensor, a temperature and humidity sensor, a
pulse sensor, and a heart rate sensor, and is calculation means
including a GPS reception section. This sensor section 210 acquires
the user's physical data in exercise or daily life, biological
data, geographical data, and the like (hereinafter collectively
referred to as sensor data), and outputs them to the processor
200.
The input operation section 220 is input means such as a button
switch, a slide switch, a microphone, and the like provided on the
housing of the electronic apparatus, and outputs various operation
signals generated by the user's input operations to the processor
200. In response to these signals, the processor 200 sets or
controls operations in the sensor section 210 or the output section
230, or selects or sets items or information to be displayed on the
display section 500 described later.
The output section 230 is an acoustic means such as a buzzer and a
speaker, and an oscillating means such as a vibration motor and a
vibrator. This output section 230 generates sound information such
as a predetermined tone, sound pattern, a voice message and the
like, or vibration information such as a predetermined vibration
pattern, the intensity thereof and the like. This auditory sense or
tactile sense provides or reports various types of information to a
user. This output section 230 may generate predetermined sound
information or vibration information in conjunction with various
information displayed on the display section 400 or the display
section 500 described later.
The memory section 240 stores sensor data acquired from the sensor
section 210 and the like in a predetermined storage area. Also, the
memory section 240 stores data to be used when the predetermined
control program or algorithm program is executed in the processor
200, data to be generated at that time, data to be displayed on the
display section 500, and the like. Also, in the memory section 240,
a control program or algorithm program to be executed in the
processor 200 may be stored. Note that the memory section 140 may
be configured integrally with the memory section 140 connected to
the above-described processor 100.
The light source section 300 includes, although omitted in the
drawing, a back light and a front light (or edge light) formed of,
for example, LEDs (light emitting elements), and a light-emission
driving circuit for causing the back light and the front light to
emit light in a predetermined light-emitting status. In addition,
in the light source section 300, in accordance with the display
statuses of the display section 400 and the display section 500
described later and the user's input operation on the input
operation sections 120 and 220, the light-emitting status of the
back light and the front light is controlled. That is, in the light
source section 300, the light-emitting status is controlled based
on a control signal from the processor 100 or the processor 200
operating in conjunction with each other. Here, the back light is
arranged on the back surface side (opposite side of the visual
field side of the user) of the display panel 430 having a
transmissive type panel structure and, on the other hand, the front
light (or edge light) is arranged on the visual field side or side
surface side of the display panel 530. Also, the light-emission
driving circuit controls light-on (ON) and light-off (OFF) states
of the back light and the front light and light-emission luminance
based on a control signal outputted from the processor 100 or the
processor 200.
The display section 400 includes a driver circuit (or driver IC;
first driver circuit) 410 and the display panel 430 with a
transmissive type panel structure (first display panel), as shown
in FIG. 1. The driver circuit 410 includes an interface circuit
(abbreviated as "INTERFACE" in the drawing) 412, a frame memory
(abbreviated as "MEMORY" in the drawing) 414, an LCD controller (in
the drawing, abbreviated as "CONTROLLER") 416, a scan driver 418,
and a data driver 420. Here, as described above, the interface
circuit 412 is connected to the processor 100 via an interface
I/F(A) with a relatively high data transfer rate such as a serial
interface such as MIPI or a parallel interface. The frame memory
414 stores image data generated by the processor 100 and
transmitted via the above-described interface circuit 412 for each
screen of the display panel 430. The LCD controller 416 reads out
image data stored in the frame memory 414 for each address,
controls the scan driver 418 and the data driver 420 to
sequentially write in the display panel 430 at a predetermined
frame rate, and thereby causes an image based on the
above-described image data to be displayed.
To the display panel 430, for example, it is possible to apply a
transmissive type TFT (Thin Film Transistor) color liquid-crystal
panel, and a color image, moving image, or the like based on image
data generated in the processor 100 is displayed by the driver
circuit 410 in a high-functionality display format. Also, the
display panel 430 is arranged on the back surface side of the
display section 500 described later and is arranged such that the
display area of the display panel 430 and the display area of the
display panel 530 overlap in a planar view. With this, in a state
in which a color image, moving image, or the like is being
displayed on the display panel 430, the back light arranged on the
back surface side of the display panel 430 is turned on, and
thereby causes a high-luminance color image or the like to be
projected and visually recognized by the user. In this display
panel 430, since a color image, moving image, or the like is
displayed in a high-functionality display format, it is required to
have high-definition display capability with a high response speed.
In other words, the power consumption of the display panel 430 is
high.
The display section 500 includes a driver circuit (or driver IC;
second driver circuit) 510 and the display panel (second display
panel) 530, as shown in FIG. 1. As with the above-described driver
circuit 410, the driver circuit 510 includes an interface circuit
(in the drawing, abbreviated as "INTERFACE") 512, an image memory
(in the drawing, abbreviated as "MEMORY") 514, an LCD controller
(in the drawing, abbreviated as "CONTROLLER") 516, a common driver
518, and a segment driver 520. Here, as described above, the
interface circuit 512 is connected to the processor 200 via an
interface I/F(B) with a relatively low data transfer rate such as a
serial interface such as SPI. The image memory 514 stores image
data generated by the processor 200 and transmitted via the
above-described interface circuit 512. The LCD controller 516 reads
out image data stored in the image memory 514 for each address,
controls the common driver 518 and the segment driver 520 to
perform display for each screen of the display panel 530 or in a
specific area in the display panel 530 at a predetermined frame
rate, and thereby causes an image based on the above-described
image data to be displayed.
To the display panel 530, it is possible to apply a liquid-crystal
panel of a PN (Polymer Network) type or PD (Polymer Dispersed) type
capable of monochrome display of a reflection type with relatively
high reflectivity and excellent outdoor viewability and also
capable of semi-transmissive display and full-transmissive display,
and a mono-color or monochrome image, segment image, or the like
based on the image data generated in the processor 200 is displayed
by the driver circuit 510 in a simple display format. As described
above, the display panel 530 is arranged on the visual field side
of the display panel 430 of the display section 400 and is arranged
such that the display area of the display panel 530 and the display
area of the display panel 430 overlap in a planar view. As a
result, by a monochrome image, segment image, or the like being
displayed on the display panel 530, a simple image or the like with
high outdoor viewability is visually recognized by the user. In
this display panel 530, since a mono-color or monochrome image,
segment image, or the like is displayed in a simple display format,
it is only required to have low display capability with relatively
low definition and a low response speed. In other words, the power
consumption of the display panel 430 is low.
In the present embodiment, for example, while a monochrome image or
segment image is being displayed on the display panel 530, a color
image is displayed on the display panel 430 of the display section
400 described above to turn on the back light of the light source
section 300, whereby an image acquired by the color image of the
display panel 430 and the monochrome image, segment image, or the
like of the display panel 530 being superimposed (hereinafter
referred to as "superimposed image" for convenience) is visually
recognized by the user, as will be described further below. Note
that display formats achieved by the display sections 400 and 500
in the present embodiment will be described in detail further
below.
Also, each of the above-described structures achieves respective
functions by drive power supplied from a power supply section 600,
as shown in FIG. 1. In the mount-type or portable-type electronic
apparatus, as the power supply section 600, a primary battery such
as a commercially-available button-shaped battery, a secondary
battery such as a lithium-ion battery, a power supply by energy
harvest technology for generating electricity by energy such as
vibrations, light, heat, or electro-magnetic waves, or the like may
be applied singly or in combination.
Note that, although the processor 100 and the processor 200 have
separate structures in the present embodiment as shown in FIG. 1,
the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the
processor 100 and the processor 200 may be mounted and integrated
on a single semiconductor substrate in a form of System-on-a-Chip
(SOC). In this case as well, the interface I/F(A) for connecting
the processor 100 and the display section 400 and the interface
I/F(B) for connecting the processor 200 and the display section 500
are individually provided.
Also, although omitted in the present embodiment, the processor 100
and the processor 200 may include a communication interface section
(hereinafter abbreviated as "communication I/F section") which
transmits and receives various data and signals by a predetermined
communication method using a wire or wirelessly to and from a
device (hereinafter referred to as an "external device") provided
outside an electronic apparatus having the display device 10. Here,
in a case where the (high-power, high-performance) processor 100 is
provided with the communication I/F section to transmit and receive
data and the like via wireless communication to and from an
external device (for example, a high-functionality information
processing device such as a smartphone or personal computer), a
wireless communication method capable of transmitting and receiving
data with a relatively large capacity at high speeds is applied,
such as BLUETOOTH (registered trademark) communication or WI-FI
(wireless fidelity (registered trademark) communication. On the
other hand, in a case where the (low-power, low-performance)
processor 200 is provided with the communication I/F section to
transmit and receive data and the like via wireless communication
to and from an external device (for example, a sensor device
attached to another part of the body), a wireless communication
method with low power consumption is applied, such as BLUETOOTH
(registered trademark) Low Energy (BLE) communication.
(Display Device Control Method)
Next, the display device control method according to the present
embodiment is described. Here, a control method is described which
is used when the user performs exercise such as running or walking
or in the user's daily life with the electronic apparatus having
the above-described display device 10 applied therein being worn on
the body or carried, and various information is provided by being
displayed on the display panel. Here, a series of processing
operations described below are achieved by the processor 100 of the
first display block BL1 and the processor 200 of the second display
block BL2 executing a predetermined algorithm program in mutual
collaboration. Also, in this specification, in the display device
control method described below, various operation statuses of the
display device including each display mode for causing an image to
be displayed by using the display panels 430 and 530 and a display
halt mode for disabling an image to be displayed on any of the
display panels 430 and 530 are referred to as "operation modes".
That is, each display mode and the display halt mode described
below is one format of the operation mode of the present
embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a control method for
the display device according to the first embodiment;
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing display formats of the display device
according to the first embodiment;
In the control method for the display device 10 according to the
present embodiment, first, when the user operates the
above-described input operation section 220 to cause drive power to
be supplied from the power supply section 600 to start the display
device 10, a function and application (software) to be executed in
an initial state are set in the processors 100 and 200, as shown in
the flowchart of FIG. 2. Also, simultaneously, an operation mode
regarding display status and power consumption in the display
device 10 is initially set (Step S102). Here, the operation mode
initially set at Step S102 may be set (defined) in advance in a
program to be executed in the processors 100 and 200 or may be
arbitrarily set by the user.
In the present embodiment, as operation modes of the display device
10, a "SIMPLE IMAGE DISPLAY MODE" (second operation mode), a "COLOR
IMAGE DISPLAY MODE" (first operation mode), a "SUPERIMPOSED IMAGE
DISPLAY MODE" (sixth operation mode), and a "DISPLAY HALT MODE"
(fifth operation mode) are prepared in advance, and one of the
operation modes is selectively set.
Next, the processors 100 and 200 judge the operation mode initially
set at Step S102 (Step S104) and, in accordance with the result,
control the display format of the image in the display sections 400
and 500. In the following descriptions, the display format (an
example of screen display on each of the display panels 430 and
530) and the processing operation in each operation mode are
explained.
(1) Simple Image Display Mode
When the display device 10 is judged at Step S104 as being set in
the simple image display mode (Step S112), a simple image such as
time or an icon is displayed in segment display or monochrome
display on the display panel 530 arranged on the side of the user's
visual field among the display panels 430 and 530 arranged
overlapping with each other in a planar view, as shown in an
intermediate stage and a lower stage in FIG. 3(a). Also, the
display panel 430 arranged on the back surface side of the display
panel 530 is set in a non-display state where no image is displayed
(Step S114). Also, in conjunction with the non-display state of the
display panel 430, the back light of the light source section 300
arranged on the back surface side of the display panel 430 is set
in a non-light-emitting state.
In this simple image display mode, the processor 200 of the second
display block BL2 controls the display of the simple image on the
display panel 530. Also, simultaneously, only the entire first
display block BL1 or the function associated with display of the
display panel 430 of the first display block BL1 (the display
function and the display section 400 of the processor 100) enters a
halt state (sleep state) or a state (power supply OFF state) in
which drive power from the power supply section 600 is
interrupted.
That is, in the simple image display mode, in the processor 200,
the operation of the function associated with display of the
display of the display panel 530 is continued in addition to the
functions associated with control of the sensor section 210, the
input operation section 220, and the output section 230. This
operation in the display device 10 is performed by the processor
100 and the processor 200 transmitting and receiving a
collaborative signal via the collaborative communication section
150 and 250 for mutual collaboration.
Here, in the present embodiment, the halt state (sleep state) is a
power-saving state where power is controlled so as to be supplied
only to components required at minimum and is, for example, a state
called standby or sleep of S1 or S3 among the sleeping modes S0 to
S5 defined in ACPI (Advanced Configuration and Power Interface),
which is published unified standard regarding power source control
and components. Note that the halt state may be referred to as
standby mode, sleep mode, power-saving state or the like.
As a result, in the simple image display mode, a simple image
displayed on the display panel 530 is visually recognized by the
user, as shown in an upper stage of FIG. 3(a), and power
consumption by the first display block BL1 is reduced. Here, as
described above, since the display panel 530 has a panel structure
capable of monochrome display with relatively high reflectivity, it
is not required to cause the back light of the light source section
300 to emit light. Also, since the image displayed on the display
panel 530 is a simple image with a small data capacity, the power
consumption of the display device 10 is reduced as compared to the
case in which a color image or the like is displayed on the display
panel 430 in the color image display mode and the superimposed
image display mode described later.
Next, in the state in which the display device 10 is in the simple
image display mode, it is monitored, constantly or at predetermined
timing, whether an event (trigger) of changing the setting of the
operation mode has been detected (Step S116). This monitoring
operation is performed by the processor 200 of the second display
block BL2. Here, the event of changing the setting of the operation
mode of the display device 10 indicates a case in which, for
example, the setting of the display status of each image by
application, the operation of the input operation section 220 by
the user, the detection of a specific physical, biological, or
geographic status by the sensor section 210, a lapse of time
(timeout) set in advance from a predetermined state (for example,
an end of the input operation by the user), or a decrease of the
remaining amount of a battery in the power supply section 600 has
been detected.
At Step S116, if an event of changing the setting of the operation
mode has not been detected, the processor 200 continues the
operation in the simple image display mode in the display device
10. On the other hand, if an event of changing the setting of the
operation mode has been detected, the processor 200 returns to Step
S104 to again judge an operation mode newly set based on the
above-described event and, in accordance with the result, control
the display format of the image on the display sections 400 and
500.
In the above descriptions of the simple image display mode, the
screen display of the display device 10 is visually recognized by
the user under a relatively bright environment such as outdoors.
However, since the display panel 530 where an image is to be
displayed has a panel structure capable of monochrome display with
relatively high reflectivity, it may be difficult to visually
recognize screen display under a dark environment. In that case,
the operation of the input operation section 220 by the user is
detected and the control of causing the back light or the front
light (or edge light) of the light source section 300 to emit light
is performed, whereby the viewability of screen display can be
improved. The display mode in which the back light or the front
light (or edge light) of the light source section 300 emits light
in the simple image display mode (second operation mode) as
described above and thereby brightly illuminates a simple image
displayed on the display panel 530 so that the user can visually
recognize the image corresponds to a third operation mode according
to the present invention. Specific application examples therefor
are described in modification examples described later.
This simple image display mode using the second display block BL2
is applied to a case in which, for example, the user not operating
a wrist terminal for an electronic apparatus having the display
device 10 glances screen display to check information such as time
or a measurement value acquired by a sensor. In this case, as
described above, the simple image is on segment display or
monochrome display. Thus, although expressive power of screen
display is decreased, the processor 200 with low processing
capacity is used, and thus the power consumption of the display
device 10 can be significantly reduced, and the driving time of the
electronic apparatus can be prolonged. Note that, in this simple
image display mode, the image displayed on the display panel 530
may be not on monochrome display but on single color display or
multi-color display.
(2) Color Image Display Mode
At the above-described Step S104, when the display device 10 is
judged as being set in the color image display mode (Step S122), a
high-functionality image such as a color image or moving image is
displayed on the display panel 430 arranged on the back surface
side among the display panels 430 and 530, as shown in an
intermediate stage and a lower stage of FIG. 3(b). Also, the
display panel 530 arranged on the visual field side is set in the
non-display state in which no image is displayed and also in a
transmissive state of transmitting the image displayed on the
display panel 430 (Step S124). Also, in conjunction with the
display status of the display panel 430, the back light of the
light source section 300 is set in a light-emitting state.
In this color image display mode, the processor 100 of the first
display block BL1 controls the display of a color image or the like
on the display panel 430 and the light emission of the back light
in the light source section 300. Also, simultaneously, the
processor 200 of the second display block BL2 performs control such
that the display panel 530 is in a transmissive state. Here, in a
case where a PN-type liquid-crystal panel is applied as the display
panel 530 as described above, it is required to apply a
predetermined voltage to the display panel 530 to achieve the
transmissive state. In that case, since the display panel 530 is
set in the non-display state, the processor 200 is not required to
perform processing operation for causing the display panel 530 to
display an image. That is, in the color image display mode, the
operations of all functions in the processor 100 are continued, and
the operation of a function for controlling the display panel 530
to enter a transmissive state and functions associated with the
control of the sensor section 210, the input operation section 220,
and the output section 230 in the processor 200 are continued
without a halt. This operation in the display device 10 is
performed by the processor 100 and the processor 200 in mutual
collaboration.
As a result, in the color image display mode, the color image or
the like displayed on the display panel 430 is visually recognized
by the user, as shown in an upper stage of FIG. 3(b) and, since the
processing load in the display function of the processor 200 is
reduced, power consumption by the second display block BL2 is
reduced. Here, as described above, since the display panel 430 has
a transmissive type panel structure, it is required to cause the
back light of the light source section 300 to emit light. Also,
since the image displayed on the display panel 430 is a color
image, moving image, or the like with a large data capacity, the
power consumption of the display device 10 is increased as compared
to the case where a simple image is displayed on the display panel
530 in the above-described simple image display mode, but a clear
color image or the light with high luminance can be displayed.
Next, in the state in which the display device 10 is in the color
image display mode, it is monitored by the processor 100 of the
first display block BL1 or the processor 200 of the second display
block BL2 where the display function has been set in a transmissive
state whether an event (trigger) of changing the setting of the
operation mode has been detected (Step S126). If that event has not
been detected, the processors 100 and 200 continue the operation in
the color image display mode. On the other hand, if that event has
been detected, the processors 100 and 200 return to Step S104 to
control the display format of the image on the display sections 400
and 500 in accordance with the judgment result of an operation mode
newly set. Here, in the color image display mode, since the
operations of all functions of the processor 100 of the first
display block BL1 are continued, the operation of the input
operation section 120 by the user is included as an event of
changing the setting of the operation mode of the display device
10.
This color image display mode using the first display block BL1 is
applied in the electronic apparatus with the display device 10
mounted thereon when, for example, the user actively operates a
wrist terminal. In this case, since the processor 100 with high
processing power has been used as described above, the power
consumption of the display device 10 is increased but
high-definition color graphic images, animation images, and the
like can be favorably displayed. Also, the response speed,
operability, and the like of the display device 10 with respect to
the input operation by the user can be optimized to improve the
usability of the user.
(3) Superimposed Image Display Mode
At the above-described Step S104, when the display device 10 is
judged as being set in the superimposed image display mode (Step
S132), a simple image such as time, a measurement value, or icon is
displayed by segment display or monochrome display on the display
panel 530 arranged on the side of the user's visual field, as shown
in an intermediate stage and a lower stage of FIG. 3(c). Also, a
high-functionality image such as a color image or moving image is
displayed on the display panel 430 arranged on the back surface
side of the display panel 530 (Step S134). Also, in conjunction
with the display status of the display panel 430, the back light of
the light source section 300 is set in a light-emitting state.
In this superimposed image display mode, the processor 100 of the
first display block BL1 controls the display of a color image or
the like on the display panel 430 and the light emission of the
back light in the light source section 300. Also, simultaneously,
the processor 200 of the second display block BL2 controls the
display of a simple image on the display panel 530. That is, in the
superimposed image display mode, the operations of all functions of
the processors 100 and 200 are continued. These operations in the
display device 10 are performed by the processor 100 and the
processor 200 in mutual collaboration.
As a result, in the superimposed image display mode, a colorful
superimposed image with rich expressive power, which has been
acquired by the color image or the like displayed on the display
panel 430 and the simple monochrome image or segment image being
superimposed, is visually recognized by the user, as shown in an
upper stage of FIG. 3(c). In this case, since both of the first
display block BL1 and the second display block BL2 are operated,
the power consumption of the display device 10 is increased.
However, since the processor 100 with high processing power has
been used, the response speed, operability, and the like of the
display device 10 with respect to the user's input operation can be
optimized to improve usability for the user.
Next, in the state in which the display device 10 is in the
superimposed image display mode, it is monitored by the processor
100 or 200 whether an event (trigger) of changing the setting of
the operation mode has been detected (Step S136). If that event has
not been detected, the processors 100 and 200 continue the
operation in the superimposed image display mode. On the other
hand, if that event has been detected, the processor 100 and 200
return to Step S104 to control the display format of the image on
the display sections 400 and 500 in accordance with the judgment
result of an operation mode newly set. Here, in the superimposed
image display mode as well, the operation of input operation
section 120 by the user is included as an event of changing the
setting of the operation mode of the display device 10, as with the
above-described color image display mode.
Note that, when the update frequency and changes (motions) of the
screen display of the color image or the like displayed on the
display panel 430 are less and the update frequency and changes
(motions) of the screen display of the simple image displayed on
the display panel 530 is more in the above-described superimposed
image display mode, only the simple image with a small data
capacity displayed by the processor 200 on the display panel 530 is
required to update. Therefore, power consumption by the first
display block BL1 can be reduced as much as possible.
(4) Display Halt Mode
At the above-described Step S104, when the display device 10 is
judged as being set in the display halt mode (Step S142), a
non-display state is set in which no image is displayed on both of
the display panels 430 and 530, as shown in an intermediate stage
and a lower stage of FIG. 3(d) (Step S144). Also, the back light of
the light source section 300 arranged on the back surface side of
the display panel 430 is also set in a non-light-emitting
state.
In this display halt mode, only the entire first display block BL1
or the function associated with the display of the display panel
430 of the first display block BL1 enters a halt state (sleep
state) or a power supply OFF state. Also, simultaneously, only the
function associated with display of the display panel 530 of the
second display block BL2 (the display function and the display
section 500 of the processor 200) enters a halt state (sleep state)
or a power supply OFF state. That is, in the display halt mode, in
the processor 200, the operations of the functions associated with
the control of the sensor section 210, the input operation section
220, and the output section 230 other than the functions associated
with the display of the display panel 530 are continued without a
halt. These operations in the display device 10 are performed by
the processor 100 and the processor 200 in mutual
collaboration.
As a result, in the display halt mode, no image is visually
recognized by the user, as shown in an upper stage of FIG. 3(d).
Also, power consumption by the first display block BL1 and the
second display block BL2 is significantly reduced (for example, to
substantially zero).
Next, in the state in which the display device 10 is in the display
halt mode, whether an event (trigger) of changing the setting of
the operation mode has been detected is monitored by the processor
200 of the second display block BL2 in which the display function
is in a halt state (Step S146). If that event has not been
detected, the processor 200 continues the operation in the display
halt mode. On the other hand, if that event has been detected, the
processor 200 returns to Step S104 to control the display format of
the image on the display sections 400 and 500 in accordance with
the judgment result of an operation mode newly set.
In the present embodiment, the above-described series of processing
operation is repeatedly performed. Accordingly, for example,
operation specifications of the display device as follows can be
achieved. That is, in a state in which the user who has activated
the electronic apparatus having the display device 10 is operating,
for example, the touch panel or a button switch of the input
operation section 120 or 220 or in a state in which an input
operation by the user has been detected, the operation mode is set
by the application in the color image display mode or the
superimposed image display mode. As a result, as described above,
the color image or the like displayed on the display panel 430 or
an superimposed image acquired by the color image or the like and
the simple image displayed on the display panel 530 being
superimposed is visually recognized by the user. Here, in the color
image display mode, the function associated with display of the
display panel 530 is set in a transmissive state.
Then, when the user ends the operation on the touch panel, button
switch, or the like or when no input operation by the user is
detected, the setting of the operation mode is changed by the
application to the simple image display mode after a predetermined
time (for example, thirty seconds) elapses. As a result, the simple
image displayed on the display panel 530 is visually recognized by
the user. In this simple image display mode, the entire first
display block BL1 or the function associated with display of the
display panel 430 is set in a halt state or a power supply OFF
state.
Note that, when the above-described series of processing operations
is being performed in the present embodiment, the processors 100
and 200 constantly monitor for an input operation for interrupting
or ending a processing operation or the change of the operation
status and, when an input operation or the change of the status is
detected, forcibly ends the processing operation. Specifically, the
processors 100 and 200 detect a power supply OFF operation by the
user, a decrease in the remaining amount of the battery in the
power supply section 600, an occurrence of an anomaly in a function
or application being executed, or the like and forcibly
discontinues and ends the series of processing operations.
(Program Structure)
Note that any program can be used to achieve the control method for
the display device according to the present embodiment without
limitation as long as it can execute the series of processing
operations as shown in the above-described flowchart. In the
present invention, the program structure described below can be
applied.
In the present embodiment, the processor 100 of the first display
block BL1 has incorporated therein basic software for executing and
controlling the entire operation and function of the display device
10. Also, the processor 200 of the second display block BL2 has
incorporated therein single-function software for executing only a
specific function even in a state in which the basic software
incorporated in the processor 100 is not operating (for example, in
a shutdown state or a power supply OFF state of the processor 100).
Here, the basic software incorporated in the processor 100 has a
function corresponding to an OS (Operating System) incorporated in
a general computer, and the single-function software incorporated
in the processor 200 has a function corresponding to a BIOS (Basic
Input Output System) or the like incorporated in a general
computer. In the present embodiment, the single-function software
incorporated in the processor 200 is a small program just enough
to, for example, display an image of a timepiece (time) on the
display panel 530.
That is, in a state in which the display device 10 has been
activated, the predetermined control program or algorithm program
is executed under the control of the basic software (OS-level
program) incorporated in the processor 100, and thereby controls
the operation and function of the processors 100 and 200. On the
other hand, in a shutdown state (or power supply OFF state of the
processor 100) as well in which the basic software incorporated in
the processor 100 is not operating, the supply of drive power to
the processor 200 is maintained and the operation of at least the
single-function software (BIOS-level program) is continued in the
present embodiment. As a result, timepiece display or the like is
performed on the display panel 530 by the processor 200
irrespective of the operation status of the basic software or the
power supply ON or OFF state of the display device 10. Here, the
display panel 530 is capable of display with relatively high
reflectivity and excellent outdoor viewability. Therefore, even
when the user visually recognizes the screen display of the display
device 10 under a relatively bright environment such as outdoors,
it is not required to cause the back light of the light source
section 300 to emit light.
Accordingly, in the above-described simple image display mode, by
the single-function software incorporated in the processor 200
being used, a simple image with a small data capacity such as
timepiece display can be displayed on the display panel 530 of the
second display block BL2. In this case, it is possible to
constantly provide the user with useful information such as time
and also reduce the power consumption of the display device 10 as
much as possible to prolong the driving time of the electronic
apparatus having the display device mounted thereon.
Also, in the simple image display mode, when an image displayed on
the display panel 530 cannot be favorably visually recognized under
a dark environment, the operation of the input operation section
220 by the user is detected by the single-function software
incorporated in the processor 200 to perform control of causing the
back light or front light (or edge light) of the light source
section 300 to emit light. Accordingly, the power consumption of
the display device 10 is reduced as much as possible, and
light-emission control can be performed on the light source section
300 as required so as to improve the viewability of screen
display.
Also, in the color image display mode, under the control of the
basic software incorporated in the processor 100, a
high-functionality image such as a color image or moving image can
be displayed on the display panel 430 of the first display block
BL1. Also, in the superimposed image display mode, under the
control of the basic software incorporated in the processor 100, a
high-functionality image can be displayed on the display panel 430
of the first display block BL1 and a simple image can be displayed
on the display panel 530 of the second display block BL2. In these
cases, screen display with rich expressive power can be achieved,
and the response speed, operability, and the like of the display
device 10 can be optimized to improve usability.
Note that, as a program structure for achieving the above-described
control method for the display device, the case has been described
in the present embodiment in which the basic software having a
function corresponding to an OS is operated in the processor 100
and the single-function software having a function corresponding to
BIOS is operated in the processor 200. However, the present
invention is not limited thereto. For example, a program structure
may be adopted in which both of the basic software and the
single-function software are incorporated in one of the processors
100 and 200 and the processor 100 and the processor 200 mutually
collaborate, whereby the above-described control method for the
display device is achieved.
(Verification of Operations and Effects)
Next, operations and effects of the display device according to the
present embodiment and its control method are specifically
described by presenting a comparative example.
FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram showing a comparative example
for describing an operation effect of the present embodiment, and
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing examples of the screen display of the
comparative example. Here, to clarify comparison in structure and
control method between the present embodiment and the comparative
example, a structure equivalent to that of the present embodiment
is provided with an equivalent reference character for
description.
A display device in the comparative example mainly has, for
example, a processor 100P, a light source section 300P, and a
display section 400P, and the display section 400P includes a
transmissive type display panel 430P and a driver circuit 410P, as
shown in FIG. 4. As with the above-described embodiment, the driver
circuit 410P includes an interface circuit 412P, a frame memory
414P, an LCD controller 416P, a scan driver 418P, a data driver
420P.
In this display device, as with the above-described present
embodiment, image data generated by the processor 100P in
accordance with the setting of application and the user's input
operation is written in the frame memory 414P of the driver circuit
410P, by which a predetermined image is displayed in an entire
display area of the display panel 430P. Then, by the light of the
light source section 300P being emitted from the back surface side
of the display panel 430P, an image displayed on the display panel
430P is projected to the side of the user's visual field and is
visually recognized by the user.
Here, in order to cause a high-definition image such as a
high-definition color image as described above or smooth moving
image or animation to be displayed on the display panel 430P, it is
required to apply an arithmetic operation circuit with relatively
high processing power and high power consumption (high-power,
high-performance processor) as the processor 100P. In addition, it
is required to connect the processor 100P and the driver circuit
410P via an interface I/F(P) supporting standards with a relatively
high data transfer rate such as, for example, MIPI or a parallel
interface. Also, as the display panel 430P, it is required to apply
a transmissive type TFT color liquid-crystal panel or the like
supporting display of color images, moving images, and the
like.
In this display device, even in a case where a simple image such as
timepiece display is displayed on the display panel 430P, when an
image with frequent updates or changes (for example, second display
in the drawing) is included as shown in FIG. 5(a), it is required
to frequently generate image data for the entire display area of
the display panel 430P by the processor 100P and repeat the
operation of writing the image data via the interface I/F(P) in the
driver circuit 410P. Thus, it is required to cause the processor
100P to constantly operate, and a transition to a power-saving
state or halt state cannot be made. On the other hand, as shown in
FIG. 5(b) and FIG. 5(c), when an image with a less frequency
updates or changes of screen display (for example, map or exercise
support image) is to be displayed on the display panel 430P for a
predetermined period, even if that image is a high-functionality
image, the image data generated by the processor 100P and written
in the driver circuit 410P is retained in the frame memory 414P.
Thus, during the display of that image, the processor 100P can be
in a power-saving state or halt state until a request for
generating next image data is provided. Note that, as with the
above-described present embodiment (refer to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3),
FIG. 5(a) to FIG. 5(d) show examples (simple image, color image, or
no image display) of screen display in each mode displayed on the
display panel 430P when the display mode is switched due to the
setting of the application, the user's input operation, or the
like.
In this manner, in the display device of the comparative example,
since the processor 100P singly controls screen display in all
display modes in the display section 400P, the processing load is
high and, in particular, when an image with frequent updates or
changes is displayed, the processor 100P is constantly operated,
which increases power consumption. Also, even when a simple image
is displayed on the display panel 430P, it is required to use the
display panel 430P supporting display of a high-definition color
image, moving image, or the like and the processor 100P with high
performance. Thus, the processing power of the processor 100P and
the display performance of the display panel 430P become in a
surplus state, and the performance of the display section 400P
cannot be effectively used.
By contrast, the present embodiment has the first display block BL1
including the processor 100 with relatively high processing power
and the display section 400 with high display performance and the
second display block BL2 including the processor 200 with
relatively low processing power and the display section 500 with
low display performance. In addition, the processors 100 and 200
mutually collaborate and are controlled to properly use the first
display block BL1 and the second display block BL2 in accordance
with an operation mode.
That is, as described above, in the simple image display mode for
displaying a simple image such as time or an icon, the second
display block BL2 is operated, and the first display block BL1 is
halted. On the other hand, in the color image display mode for
displaying a color image, moving image, or the like, the first
display block BL1 is operated, and the display function of the
second display block BL2 is set in a transmissive state.
Furthermore, in the superimposed image display mode for displaying
a superimposed image with a simple image and a color image
superimposed, both of the first display block BL1 and the second
display block BL2 are operated.
Accordingly, in the present embodiment, either one of the display
blocks having different processing powers and display performances
is used in accordance with an operation mode to switch among a
simple image such as time, a high-functionality image such as a
color image, and a more colorful superimposed image. Thus, various
types of information can be provided in various display formats by
using a display block with appropriate processing power and display
performance without impairing operability for the user. Here, when
the simple image, color image, or the like is to be displayed, one
of the first display block BL1 and the second display block BL2 can
be caused to substantially enter a halt state or power-saving
state. Thus, the power consumption of the display device 10 can be
reduced, and the driving time of the electronic apparatus having
the display device 10 mounted thereon can be improved.
Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment of the display device according to the
present invention is described in detail with reference to the
drawings.
FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram showing the second embodiment
of the display device according to the present invention, FIG. 7 is
a flowchart showing an example of a control method for the display
device according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 8 and FIG. 9
are diagrams showing display formats of the display device
according to the present embodiment. Here, components and a control
method equivalent to those of the above-described first embodiment
are provided with the same reference numerals and descriptions
therefor are simplified.
In the first embodiment, the structure has been described in which
the display state of the display panel 430 is controlled by the
processor 100 in the first display block BL1 and the display state
of the display panel 530 is controlled by the processor 200 in the
second display block BL2. The second embodiment is characterized in
that a simple image based on image data generated by the processor
200 of the second display block BL2 is displayed in a specific area
of the display panel 430 of the first display block BL1 and is
combined and displayed with an image for one screen based on image
data generated by the processor 100.
In the display device 10 according to the second embodiment, the
processor 200 of the second display block BL2 is connected via an
interface I/F(C) of predetermined standards to the interface
circuit 412 of the display section 400 of the first display block
BL1 in the structure shown in the above-described first embodiment,
as shown in FIG. 6. That is, the interface circuit 412 of the
display section 400 has a plurality of interfaces of different
standards, and is connected to the processor 100 via the interface
I/F(A) such as MIPI, and is connected to the processor 200 via the
interface I/F(C) with a relatively low data transfer rate, such as
SPI.
Then, the frame memory 414 is sequentially overwritten with image
data or the like transmitted from the processors 100 and 200 via
the above-described individual interfaces I/F(A) and I/F(C) to the
driver circuit 410 for storage. Here, in a state in which image
data from one of the processors 100 and 200 has been written in the
frame memory 414, when image data is written from the other
processor, overwriting and storing are performed such that the
latter image data becomes effective. Also, by specifying an address
at the time of image data writing, overwriting is performed with
only image data corresponding to the address, among pieces of image
data already written in the frame memory 414. Note that the timing
of transmitting image data to the driver circuit 410 from each of
the processors 100 and 200 is controlled by transmitting and
receiving a collaborative signal between the processors 100 and 200
for mutual collaboration and synchronization. Also, image data
generated by the processor 200 is controlled so as to be
selectively transmitted to one of the driver circuits 410 and 510
in accordance with an operation mode (details are described later)
of the display device 10.
Accordingly, in the present embodiment, in the state in which an
image for one screen such as a color image or moving image based on
image data generated by the processor 100 is being displayed on the
display panel 430 of the first display block BL1, a specific image
based on image data generated by the processor 200 is displayed in
a specific display area (specific area) with the address of the
display panel 430 specified. Here, the image displayed on the
display panel 430 based on the image data generated by the
processor 200 is a simple image such as an image with a small data
capacity or an image with a limited update area of screen
display.
In the control method for the display device of the present
embodiment having the above-described structure, as an operation
mode of the display device 10, a "composed image display mode"
(fifth operation mode) is provided in advance in addition to the
operation modes including the simple image display mode, the color
image display mode, the superimposed image display mode, and the
display halt mode described in the above-described first
embodiment, and one of the operation modes is set in accordance
with a result of operation mode judgment, as shown in the flowchart
of FIG. 7.
(5) Composed image Display Mode
In the composed image display mode (Step S152), as shown in an
intermediate stage and a lower stage of FIG. 8(d), a composed image
(fourth image) acquired by an image 432 for one screen and simple
images 434 and 436 in specific areas being combined is displayed on
the display panel 430 arranged on the back surface side among the
display panels 430 and 530. Also, the display panel 530 arranged on
the visual field side is set in a non-display state in which no
image is displayed and in a transmissive state of transmitting the
image displayed on the display panel 430 (Step S154). Also, in
conjunction with the display status of the display panel 430, the
back light of the light source section 300 is set in a
light-emitting state.
In this composed image display mode, the processor 100 of the first
display block BL1 controls the display of the image 432 for one
screen on the display panel 430, and the processor 200 of the
second display block BL2 controls the display of the simple images
434 and 436 in the specific areas on the display panel 430. Also,
here, the processor 200 of the second display block BL2 performs
control so that the display panel 530 is in a transmissive state.
Also, the processor 100 and the processor 200 mutually collaborate
to control the light emission of the back light in the light source
section 300. Here, the image 432 for one screen displayed on the
display panel 430 may be, for example, a high-functionality image
such as a color image, as shown in FIG. 8(d), or may be a simple
image for, for example, hour, minute, and second display of a
digital timepiece, as shown in FIG. 9(a). Also, the simple images
434 and 436 in the specific areas displayed on the display panel
430 may be simple segment images or monochrome images displayed in
a display area that is sufficiently narrow as compared to the
entire display area of the display panel 430, such as time, a
measurement value, an icon, or a simple graphic, as shown in FIG.
8(d), FIG. 9(a), and FIG. 9(b).
In the composed image display mode, in the state in which the image
432 for one screen is being displayed in the entire display area of
the display panel 430 based on the image data generated by the
processor 100, image data is generated by the processor 200 for
specific areas of that display area where the images 434 and 436
with a high frequency of update and more changes (motions) are
displayed, and is sequentially written in the frame memory 414 of
the driver circuit 410 via the interface I/F(C) by specifying an
address. This causes the frame memory 414 to be overwritten with
the image data at the specified address, and the operation of
rewriting the simple images 434 and 436 such as time, a measurement
value, or an icon is continuously performed only for the specific
areas of the display area of the display panel 430. Here, as for
the image data for one screen of the display panel 430 generated by
the processor 100 and written in the frame memory 414 of the driver
circuit 410, only the image data in the specific areas with which
overwriting has been performed by the processor 200 is rewritten,
and the image data in areas other than the specific areas are
retained as they are. Thus, in areas other than the specific areas
of the display area of the display panel 430, the original state in
which the image 432 for one screen has been displayed is retained.
This operation of rewriting the images in the specific areas
continues until an update or change of the images displayed on the
display panel 430 occurs in the entire area (or a relatively wide
area) of the display area of the display panel 430.
This is specifically described using an image of a timepiece (time)
shown in FIG. 9(a). Among the image 432 of "hour, minute, second"
displayed in a relatively wide area of the display panel 430, as
for a display area of "hour, minute" whose display changes every
minute, image data generated by the processor 100 is written and
retained in the frame memory 414 of the driver circuit 410 with a
cycle of one minute, and thus the image of "hour, minute" does not
change for fifty-nine seconds. On the other hand, as for a display
area of "second" whose display changes every second, image data
generated by the processor 200 is written in the frame memory 414
of the driver circuit 410 with a cycle of one second, by which the
image (that is, the image in the specific area) 434 of "second" is
sequentially rewritten every second as "01".fwdarw."02".fwdarw. . .
. "59" (in the drawing, refer to "specific area rewrite
operation").
During the period of this specific area rewrite operation, the
processor 100 transmits a collaborative signal to the processor 200
for mutual collaboration, stops generation of image data to be
written in the entire area (or a wider area including the
above-described specific area) of the display area of the display
panel 430, and thereby enters a state of halting the operation of
writing in the frame memory 414 of the driver circuit 410. Also,
during this operation period, the processor 100 is set in a halt
state, and therefore the light emission of the back light in the
light source section 300 is controlled by the processor 200. Note
that, when only the function of generating and writing image data
has been set in a halt state and operations of other functions have
been continued in the processor 100, the light emission of the back
light in the light source section 300 is controlled by the
processor 100.
Also, when an update or change occurs in the image displayed on the
display panel 430 in the entire area (or a wider area including the
above-described specific area) of the display area of the display
panel 430, or more specifically, when the display of "hour, minute"
in the image 432 including "hour, minute, second" shown in FIG.
9(a) changes, the processor 100 is recovered from the halt state,
and image data for one screen of the display panel 430 including
"hour, minute, second" is generated by the processor 100. Then, by
this image data being written in the frame memory 414 of the driver
circuit 410 with a cycle of one minute, the image 432 of the entire
area (or a wider area including the above-described specific area)
of the display area of the display panel 430 is sequentially
rewritten every minute as "12:05:00".fwdarw."12:06:00".fwdarw. . .
. (in the drawing, refer to "entire area rewrite operation").
During the period of this entire area rewrite operation, the
processor 200 transmits a collaborative signal to the processor 100
to recover from the halt state, stops generation of image data to
be written in the specific areas of the display panel 430, and
thereby enters a state of temporarily stopping the operation of
writing in the frame memory 414 of the driver circuit 410. Here, in
the processor 200, only the function associated with the display of
the display panel 430 is temporarily stopped, and the operation
continues without halting the other functions. Therefore, in this
operation period, the light emission of the back light in the light
source section 300 can be controlled by the processor 100 or 200.
However, since the period is a relatively short time (on the order
of one second), the light emission of the back light should
preferably be controlled by the processor 200, as with the period
of the above-described specific area rewrite operation.
As such, in the composed image display mode, the entire area
rewrite operation and the specific area rewrite operation described
above are repeatedly performed by being switched at predetermined
timing. Thus, as shown in an upper stage of FIG. 8(d) and FIG.
9(a), a colorful composed image with rich expressive power which
has been acquired by the image 432 for one screen displayed on the
display panel 430 and the simple images 434 and 436 in the specific
areas being combined is visually recognized by the user. In this
case, the display function for one display panel 430 by the
processors 100 and 200 is operated, and the display function for
the other display panel 430 is set in a halt state or a temporary
stop state. Thus, the power consumption of the display device 10 is
reduced as compared to the case in which a color image or the like
and a simple image are displayed and superimposed on the display
panels 430 and 530 in the above-described superimposed image
display mode.
Also, as shown at Step S156 of the flowchart of FIG. 7, the
operation in the composed image display mode described above is
continued by the processor 100 or 200 until an event (trigger) of
changing the setting of the operation mode is detected. If that
event has been detected, the procedure returns to Step S104 to
control the display format of the image in the display sections 400
and 500 in accordance with a result of judgment regarding an
operation mode newly set. Here, in the composed image display mode
as well, the operation of the input operation section 120 by the
user is included as an event of changing the setting of the
operation mode of the display device 10, as with the color image
display mode and the superimposed image display mode described
above.
As such, in the present embodiment as well, either one of the
display blocks having different processing powers and display
performances is used in accordance with the operation mode, and
various types of information can be provided in various display
formats by using a display block with appropriate processing power
and display performance without impairing operability for the user,
as with the above-described first embodiment. Here, in the present
embodiment, in addition to the simple image, the high-functionality
image such as a color image, and the superimposed image described
above, switching can be performed to a composed image having more
reduced power consumption and a display format which is as colorful
as that of the superimposed image, in accordance with the operation
mode.
In the present embodiment, the control method for the display
device has been described by showing, as an example of the screen
display, a composed image acquired by the image 432 for one screen
and the simple images 434 and 436 in the specific areas being
combined or a composed image including so-called hour, minute, and
second display of a digital timepiece. However, the present
invention is not limited thereto. In another example of the screen
display according to the present invention, for example, an image
of an analog timepiece constituted by hour, minute, and second
hands (Hh, Hm, Hs) may be displayed on the display panel 430, as
shown on left and right of FIG. 9(b). In this case, as for an image
434 in the specific area indicating the second hand Hs, image data
is generated by the processor 200, and the second display of the
display panel 430 is rewritten every second (specific area rewrite
operation). Also, as for the display of the hour hand Hh and the
minute hand Hm, image data is generated by the processor 100, and
an image 432 of the entire display area of the display panel 430 is
rewritten every minute (entire area rewrite operation). Here, the
specific area where the image 434 is updated every second is not an
area fixed with respect to the display area of the display panel
430 but a moving or changing area.
Also, as for the size of the specific area, the specific area is
not limited to an area that is sufficiently narrow as compared to
the entire display area of the display panel 430. The specific area
applied in the present invention may have a display area having a
size by which, when image data generated by the processor 200 with
low processing power is written in the driver circuit 410 via the
interface I/F(C) with a low data transfer rate and an image thereof
is displayed in the specific area of the display panel 430, the
user can favorably visually recognize it without the image being
disturbed or interrupted. Accordingly, when the data capacity of
image displayed in the specific area is small or when the update or
change frequency of the screen display is low, the specific area
may be set wider than the display area of the display panel
430.
For example, in the examples of digital timepiece display and
analog timepiece display shown in FIG. 9(a) and FIG. 9(b), the case
has been described in which the image 434 in the specific area is
rewritten by the processor 200 having low processing power with
only second display and the display of the second hand as being in
a specific area. However, the present invention is not limited
thereto. That is, by slightly shifting rewrite timing by the
processor 200 with low processing power, the image of hour and
minute display may be rewritten by the processor 200 with low
processing power during intervals between operations of rewriting
the image of second display every second. Accordingly, the
processor 100 with high processing power can be set in a halt state
for a longer time (for example, during a period in which timepiece
display continues on the display panel 430), and the power
consumption of the display device 10 can be significantly
reduced.
Next, modification examples in each of the above-described
embodiments are described.
First Modification Example
FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram showing modification examples
of each of the above-described embodiments.
In each of the above-described embodiments, the case has been
described in which, as for the light source section 300 such as the
back light arranged on the back surface side of the display panel
430, the processors 100 and 200 mutually collaborate in accordance
with the operation mode of the display device 10 and light emission
is controlled by one of the processors 100 and 200. However, the
present invention is not limited thereto. That is, light emission
may be constantly controlled by the processor 200 with low
processing power, as shown in FIG. 10(a) and FIG. 10(b). As a
result, the processing load on the processor 100 can be reduced,
and power consumption in a halt state can be further reduced.
Second Modification Example
A normal information processing device such as a display device is
operated under an OS (such as Windows (registered trademark) of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States or ANDROID (registered
trademark) of Google Inc. in the United States) and is, in general,
stopped when the OS is shut down. However, in the display device of
the present embodiment, even if the OS is shut down, the BIOS,
which is a relatively small program, continues operation, so that
an image can be displayed on the display panel 530. This operation
state corresponds to the second operation mode according to the
present invention. In general, a display device for full-color
display such as a smartphone consumes high power, and therefore is
required to be charged every day. However, image display on the
display panel 530 to which a PN-type liquid-crystal panel or the
like has been applied does not consume high power. Accordingly, the
display device can be used for several weeks if it is used only for
timepiece display by a reflective type. Thus, the display device 10
can be used as a timepiece in a state of being shut down. In
addition, when illumination is required in this state, for example,
by the user pressing a button switch of the input operation section
220, the BIOS can detect that input, and the processor 200 can
control the light source section 300 for illumination. This
operation state corresponds to the third operation mode in the
present invention.
Third Modification Example
Also, in each of the above-described embodiments, the case has been
described in which the operation modes of the display device 10
include the simple image display mode, the color image display
mode, the superimposed image display mode, and the display halt
mode. In addition, the case has been described in which the
composed image display mode is added. However, the present
invention is not limited thereto. For example, the operation modes
may include only the simple image display mode and the color image
display mode or may include only the simple image display mode, the
color image display mode, and the display halt mode. In that case,
it is not required to simultaneously display images on two
overlapping display panels 430 and 530 as in the superimposed image
display mode. Therefore, one of the processors 100 and 200 can
substantially enter a halt state or power-saving state, and the
power consumption of the display device 10 can be reduced.
Fourth Modification Example
Also, in each of the above-described embodiments, the structure has
been described in which the first display block BL1 includes the
processor 100 with high processing power, the interface with a high
transfer speed, and the display section 400 with high display
performance and the second display block BL2 includes the processor
200 with relatively low processing power, the interface with a low
transfer speed, and the display section 500 with low display
performance. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.
For example, the first display block BL1 and the second display
block BL2 may have structures where their processors, interfaces,
and display sections have the same performance. In this case, in
the first display block BL1, the processor 100 is operated at a
high operation frequency, and image data with a large data capacity
is generated, transferred to the display section 400 at a high
transfer speed, and displayed on the display panel 430 as a
high-functionality image. On the other hand, in the second display
block BL2, the processor 200 is operated at a low operation
frequency, and image data with a small data capacity is generated,
transferred to the display section 500 at a low transfer speed, and
displayed on the display panel 530 as a simple image. In this
structure and the control method as well, either one of the first
display block BL1 and the second display block BL2 is used in
accordance with the operation mode, as with each of the
above-described embodiments. Thus, various types of information can
be provided in various display formats without impairing
operability for the user, and the power consumption of the display
device 10 can be reduced.
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been
described above, the present invention is not limited thereto and
includes the invention described in the scope of claims and its
equivalent scope.
DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
10 display device 100, 200 processor 120, 220 input operation
section 140, 240 memory section 150, 250 collaborative
communication section 210 sensor section 300 light source section
400, 500 display section 410, 510 driver circuit 412, 512 interface
circuit 414 frame memory 430, 530 display panel 514 image memory
600 power supply section BL1 first display block BL2 second display
block I/F(A)-I/F(C) interface
* * * * *